The Bears kicked off strong in the Compulsory event, posting an impressive 37.200 out of 40.000. A standout moment came in the Compulsory Pyramid, where the Bears earned a near-perfect score of 9.700 out of 10.000. Key contributors, including Gamoni Gaskins, Taylor Green, Niani Anderson, Lauren Perkins, Janae Harris, and Kayla Bryant executed their routine with remarkable precision and confidence, setting the tone for the meet.
 

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Morgan's momentum continued in the Acro event, where the Bears earned their highest event score of the night: 29.900. The team demonstrated consistency across all heats, starting with an 8.750 out of 10.000 in the 5-element heat, improving to 8.850 in the 6-element heat, and closing strong with another 8.750 out of 9.900 in the final heat. Their flawless execution proved to be a key factor in their overall success.

At the halfway mark, the Bears posted a total score of 91.700, while the Ducks held a narrow lead at 97.050. With both teams pushing for a strong finish, the stage was set for a gripping second half.

In the Tumbling event, the Bears delivered an outstanding performance, earning a total of 53.975 out of 56.850. Freshman Marrissa Jet (MJ) stole the show with her opening pass, scoring an impressive 9.570 out of 9.750.

"I'm hoping the bump up might lead to a perfect 10.00," said Jett. "It was a 9.75 today, so hopefully, I can keep improving." 

Freshman Lailah Jewell also impressed with her aerial pass, scoring 9.175 out of 9.550, while sophomore Kayla Bryant excelled in the 6-element pass, posting a 9.425 out of 9.700. Their strong performances played a crucial role in the Bears' success in this event.

"I'm feeling pretty good. I'm excited to compete against one of the top schools and I'm confident in my tumbling pass," Jett said, reflecting on her experience.

Off the mat, the Bears showcased their unity and leadership, with sophomore Taylor Green, junior A'Lycia Moore, and freshmen Cai Smith and Aniya Jones participating in a panel discussion. They shared their experiences as part of the Morgan State Acrobatics & Tumbling team and provided an inside look into what it's like to compete at the collegiate level while representing a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

"We did the unthinkable," said Head Coach Regina Smith. "If you noticed the time change... this is Black History in the making. We're often underrepresented and underestimated, but today was proof that we can compete with the best."

In just their second season, the Bears made a bold statement on the mat, showing the Acrobatics & Tumbling world that they are here to stay—and ready to make their mark.

The Bears are back in action on February 21, 2025, when they face off against Kutztown University in Kutztown, Pa. It promises to be another exciting matchup as they continue their journey through the season.
 

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ABOUT MORGAN
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering nearly 140 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu.